<span style="color: #222222;">Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa laid the foundation stone for the 108 feet tall bronze statue of Bengaluru founder Kempegowda near the state capital's international airport today. The statue will cost around 78 crore rupees and is likely to be ready in a year and a half.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Today is Kempegowda's 511th Jayanti. On this occasion the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for the development of 23 acres theme park in memory of the founder of Bengaluru.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Kempegowda founded the city on scientific lines, creating civic amenities to suit the demands of people.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Speaking about the challenges plaguing the city today, he said it is imperative to address the issues of solid waste management, traffic congestions and infrastructure gaps.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Former Prime Minister Devegowda and Congress state President D K Shivakumar were also present on the occasion.</span><br />''